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I-90 - Two-Way Transit and HOV Operations - Complete June 2017

Project news

Overview

WSDOT and Sound Transit added high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes to both directions of the I-90 mainline between Seattle and Bellevue. This project preserves the three existing general purpose lanes in each direction while adding all-day HOV lanes as well as direct access ramps for transit, carpools, and vanpools. This work also allows Sound Transit to construct the East Link light rail extension in the existing I-90 express lanes.

Needs & benefits

Improves safety
With new direct-access ramps, carpools, vanpools and buses will access the freeway directly to or from HOV lanes without merging across three or more lanes of traffic. Traffic on the mainline will be smoother and safer for everyone.

Relieves congestion
Having around-the-clock HOV lanes in both directions for transit, vanpools, and carpools make commutes more reliable.

Protects environment
This project added to the existing drainage and storm water treatment systems to clean roadway runoff.

Partnerships & cooperation
WSDOT collaborated with Sound Transit to make the best use of taxpayer transportation dollars by moving more people, more efficiently through one of the state's busiest rush-hour commutes.